Surface Cleaning / Preparation (Sandblasting / Stripping)

Prepare the surface for painting and coating

Burn-Off:

Thermal stripping is the most effective and environmentally safe method for cleaning modern coatings. We utilize “batch burn-off ovens” that contain “afterburners” or thermal oxidizers that render modern E.P.A. approved paints and coatings chemically inert. Generally we can turn around customer supplied product in 24 hours and weekend burns pose no problem.

Washing / Spraying:

Washing racks or parts is the primary method by which ash, oxidization, and chemicals will be removed from racks and parts. Washing is also the primary method by which “new” product surfaces are prepared for painting and/or powder coating by removing dirt and oils.

Chemical Stripping:

Chemical stripping is the intentional removal of an applied chemical coating from the surface of an object to which it has been adhered. The most common reasons for removing coatings are to reclaim tooling that is used in the process of application, or to remove coating from a part that will be refinished or restored.

Pickling:

Pickling is a more cost effective means of surface preparation than sandblasting. During this process, a part is submerged in acid for a specific amount of time. The primary purpose for pickling is to remove any oxides that are embedded into the surface of the steel that remain after burning paint off its surface.

Sandblasting:

Apex utilizes sandblasting to effectively remove heavy rust and coatings. Sandblasting is also used as a primary method for preparing a surface for finishing or restoration. We have the ability to prep automotive parts or entire vehicles. We also use sandblasting to etch glass, blast wooden signs, and prepare outdoor fixtures such as patio furniture.

Passivation:

Apex has the ability to passivate various types of steels that will be used in the food industry. Generally used for treating stainless steel, passivation is a guaranteed method by which welds are cleaned. Otherwise difficult to clean, any “pits” in the welds or materials will be thoroughly cleaned. As an additional effect of passivation, the chemicals used will rid the product of weld discoloration.

Repair:

As a secondary operation to surface preparation / cleaning, Apex has the ability to repair any damage to the customer’s tooling.